Carthage College

Carthage College, located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It offers a blend of liberal arts traditions with career-focused degree programs, emphasizing personalized attention from faculty. The college is situated on an 80-acre arboretum campus along the shore of Lake Michigan, midway between Chicago and Milwaukee.

Academics

Carthage College offers over 75 areas of study, including majors, minors, and concentrations, with all classes taught by faculty members, not teaching assistants. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary study, undergraduate research, and hands-on learning. Notable newer programs include engineering science, game development, social justice, film and new media, and theatrical stage management. The college also has a strong focus on experiential learning, particularly in fields like education, where students gain significant in-classroom experience.

International Students

Carthage College provides support services for international students, including assistance with the admission process, visa requirements, and orientation. While international students constitute 1% of the student body, the college aims to create a multicultural learning environment. English language proficiency is required for admission, with minimum scores for TOEFL (78 iBT), IELTS (6.0), or PTE Academic (50). International student scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 per year are available based on academic achievement, and need-based grants may also be offered.

Campus & Location

The Carthage College campus is an 80-acre arboretum located directly on the shore of Lake Michigan, offering scenic views. Kenosha, Wisconsin, provides a vibrant downtown community with art galleries, museums, theaters, shopping, and restaurants. The city is conveniently situated between two major metropolitan areas, Chicago and Milwaukee, making day trips and access to larger city amenities easily accessible. The campus itself is considered safe and is well-patrolled by security.

Career Outcomes

Carthage College boasts a strong track record in career preparation, with 90% of new alumni over the past six years reporting employment, continuing education, or pursuing other chosen plans. The Aspire Program, a comprehensive four-year career development initiative, is automatically available to every student, offering coaching, hands-on learning, and mentoring. Graduates generally experience positive earning outcomes, with an average early career salary of about $39,000 and an average income of $48,800 ten years after enrolling, which is 42% higher than the national median.